If you’re thinking about installing a pool, or if you already have one and you’re in the market for a new pool pump, you may be wondering what size pool pump you should get. Choosing the right one is essential to keeping your pool clean and running smoothly, so it’s important to make this decision carefully.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what a pool pump does, the different types of pool pumps, and the calculation for the pump’s turnover rate. Armed with this information, you should be that much better equipped to find the right one for your needs.
A pool pump circulates water through the pool’s filtration system, which removes debris, contaminants, and bacteria from the water. The pump pulls water from the pool through a skimmer and main drain and pushes it through the filter and back into the pool.
Pool pumps typically fall into one of three categories: single-speed, dual-speed, or variable speed. Let’s explore each one in a little more detail below.
Single-speed pool pumps operate at a constant speed, typically around 3,450 revolutions per minute (RPM). These pumps are the most affordable, but they are also the least energy-efficient. In fact, they consume a lot of electricity, and can be pretty noisy to boot.
Dual-speed pool pumps have two settings: high and low. The high setting operates at 3,450 RPM, while the low setting operates at a lower speed, which can save energy and reduce noise levels.
These pool pumps tend to be more expensive than single-speed pumps upfront, but can save you money on your energy bills in the long run.
Variable-speed pool pumps are the most energy-efficient type of pool pump, as they have a variable motor speed that can adjust to the pool’s specific needs. This means they can save you quite a bit on energy costs compared to single-speed pumps. And on top of that, they are also quieter and require less maintenance.
One of the most important pieces of information you’ll need when determining what pool pump you should get is the turnover rate. The turnover rate is the amount of time it takes for the pool pump to circulate all the water in the pool through the filtration system.
The industry standard is for the pool pump to turn over the water in the pool at least once every 8 hours. To calculate your pool’s turnover rate, you need to know your pool’s volume and the flow rate of your pump.
Turnover Rate Formula: Pool Volume ÷ Flow Rate = Turnover Rate
For example, if your pool holds 20,000 gallons of water and your pump has a flow rate of 50 gallons per minute (GPM), the calculation would be:
20,000 ÷ 50 = 400 minutes or 6.67 hours
This calculation shows that your pool’s turnover rate is currently at 6.67 hours, which is below the industry standard. You may need a larger pump to reach the recommended 8-hour turnover rate.
Selecting the right size pool pump is crucial to keeping your pool clean and properly maintained. So, be sure to use the information above to help you find the right one for your needs. With the right pump, you can enjoy a clean and well-maintained pool for years to come!
Need a hand with your pool? We’d be happy to help! Click here to get in touch with Clark Pools and Spas today.
